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| Credit: rpnradio.com |
Residents of Negros Island have been urged to exercise extreme vigilance following four distinct ash emission events logged on December 22, 2025. The most sustained event lasted 118 minutes, resulting in observable ashfall in several downwind communities. Despite the visible unrest, PHIVOLCS maintains Alert Level 2.
Kanlaon Volcano Activity Summary (Dec 22-23, 2025)
- Current Alert Status: Alert Level 2 (Moderate Unrest)
- Ash Emission Count: 4 Events recorded in 24 hours
- Longest Duration: 1 hour and 58 minutes
- SO2 Flux: Average 4,133 tonnes/day
- Primary Restriction: Strict 4-km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ)
The 118-Minute Ash Event
On Monday afternoon, Kanlaon Volcano exhibited its most sustained activity in recent months. Starting at 1:11 PM, a continuous ash emission occurred for nearly two hours. PHIVOLCS described the event as "incandescent," characterized by a grayish plume that rose approximately 500 to 700 meters above the summit crater.
"The activity was recorded as volcanic tremors and low-frequency events. The plumes drifted southwest, resulting in trace ashfall in communities near the slopes. We are monitoring if this leads to magmatic ascent."
— PHIVOLCS State Bulletin, Dec. 22, 2025
Suggested Media: Aerial view of Kanlaon's summit with grayish ash plumes.
Affected Areas and Public Health Concerns
The drifting ash has impacted several local government units (LGUs). Trace ashfall and a distinct sulfurous odor were reported in parts of La Castellana, Canlaon City, Bago City, and Murcia. Local officials have begun the distribution of N95 masks.
LGU Response and Safety Measures
- La Castellana: Disaster units are on standby for potential evacuation if SO2 levels spike.
- Canlaon City: Mandatory wearing of masks in affected barangays near the slopes.
- Agriculture: Farmers are advised to wash ash off crops immediately to prevent wilting.
PHIVOLCS Advisory:
Avoid the 4-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) due to increased chances of sudden steam-driven eruptions. Ashfall can cause respiratory irritation; stay indoors when possible.
Monitoring Data: Volcanic Earthquakes and Gas
Scientific parameters remain elevated. In the latest monitoring period, PHIVOLCS sensors recorded significant volcanic tremors and high gas output. Ground deformation data also indicates that the volcanic edifice remains inflated (swollen).
| Monitoring Parameter | Observation (Dec 22-23) | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) | 4,133 t/d | Very High (Normal <300) |
| Ash Emission Count | 4 distinct events | Hydrothermal unrest |
| Plume Height | 500 - 800 Meters | Drifting Southwest |
| Seismicity | 12 Volcanic Quakes | Persistent subterranean pressure |
Aviation Safety and Entry Restrictions
Civil aviation authorities have issued warnings to pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit. Ash from sudden eruptions can be extremely hazardous to aircraft engines, potentially causing power loss.
Is a Higher Alert Level Imminent?
While Alert Level 2 is currently maintained, PHIVOLCS is analyzing ash composition. If "fresh" magmatic material is found, it could indicate that magma is rising, prompting an upgrade to Alert Level 3.
Recommendations for Residents
PHIVOLCS and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) remind the public:
- Stay Informed: Rely only on official PHIVOLCS bulletins.
- Emergency Kits: Ensure "Go Bags" include N95 masks and goggles.
- Protect Water: Cover wells and water containers to prevent contamination.
Conclusion
Kanlaon Volcano remains in a state of moderate unrest. The nearly two-hour ash emission is a reminder of the volcano's volatile nature. Residents must remain ready to act if the alert level is raised in the coming days.
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